Why do People Get Sick with Viruses in Winter?
Dr. Matthew Binnicker, Director of the Clinical Microbiology Molecular Lab and Co-Director of the Clinical Virology Lab at Mayo Clinic sheds light on the annual surge of respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and influenza during colder months. Beyond increased indoor activities, Dr. Binnicker highlights the influence of humidity and weakened immunity in fostering virus transmission.
The Role of Humidity
While indoor congregation contributes to viral spread, Dr. Binnicker emphasizes the impact of humidity. In warmer months, higher humidity causes respiratory droplets released during speaking, coughing, or sneezing to be larger and faster to fall to the ground.
In contrast, winter’s dry air allows smaller droplets containing viruses to linger in the air for extended periods, facilitating more comprehensive transmission.
Winter Challenges to Immunity
Dr. Binnicker notes that a person’s immunity functions less effectively in winter. Cilia, hairlike projections in the upper respiratory tract responsible for moving foreign objects out of the nose, operate less efficiently in cooler temperatures and lower humidity. This compromised defense allows viruses to persist longer in the upper respiratory tract.
In addition to established precautions like vaccination and hand hygiene, Dr. Binnicker suggests using humidifiers to counteract the impact of dry winter air. By maintaining adequate humidity levels, individuals may reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission.
Read the original aricle on Medical Xpress.
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